Replacing an ignition lock cylinder with no keys?
I was wondering if anyone had tips or suggestions to my current vehicle issues. So I what happened was that I lost my only pair of keys and now i am key less so no keys= no driving. I tried calling a locksmith to see if I could have a replacement set made but the locksmith could not help since I have two different keys for my vehicle, the original keys to unlock my doors and a different key for the ignition cylinder. He told me he could make me a set of keys but only for the doors and not the ignition cylinder since they have different codes. The reason i have different keys is because 3 years
Experienced mechanics share their insights in answering this question :
Hi there. Typically trying to get a key made to fit an ignition lock cylinder is next to impossible. The best advice we’d suggest is to replace your ignition lock cylinder; and make multiple copies of the keys (just in case this happens again).
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Disconnecting the battery is the only way to remove the ignition cylinder. All you have to do is disconnect the battery because it provides power to the ignition lock cylinder. If you are not able to open your car door with an unlocked car, then turn off the engine and wait for a few minutes before opening the door.
Use a portable jump starter or use another car to jumpstart your vehicle. Either with a portable jump starter or with a jumper cable connected to another car. It`s pretty easy to jumpstart your vehicle. All you have to do is connect to identify the ignition coil and the battery.
You can replace the ignition switch yourself, but it`s not an easy task: you will have to remove the steering wheel and work close to the airbag – which can be dangerous. Don`t hesitate to call a professional mechanic if you`re not feeling confident.
Yes, the original key is necessary to use a rekey kit when rekeying a lock. If you do not have the original key, you can choose to hire a locksmith to make a new key or you can replace the lock.
If you`ve misplaced your key and need to get into a locked barrel or cylinder, the quickest way to get in is to drill them. This task can be completed with a power drill and either a cobalt or carbide drill bit, as well as a hammer, punch, and screwdriver.
The bypass wire prevents the ignition coil from sending power to the starter while the engine is running.
At their most basic, ignition cylinders are simply locks and can be reconfigured as such. An experienced auto locksmith can take the cylinder apart and reconfigure its internal components for compatibility with a new key. The cost of rekeying your car`s ignition will likely be between $120 and $225.
Replacing a lock is self-explanatory: the locksmith changes your old lock with a new one. Rekeying, on the other hand, is a bit different – the locksmith replaces the working key of the lock but keeps the same lock. The lock is, however, taken apart and some parts inside are replaced (the “key pins” or “tumblers”).
A basic system is where all cylinder locks are opened by a single Master Key but each of the door cylinders is opened by its own key often referred to as the slave or differ key.
Some lock cylinders can be repaired by locksmiths by replacing or smoothing wafers. In cases where an ignition lock cylinder has to be replaced, the vehicle will also need new keys and new locks for the doors and trunk.
A basic system is where all cylinder locks are opened by a single Master Key but each of the door cylinders is opened by its own key often referred to as the slave or differ key.
Keyed to differ is standard, and every cylinder comes with its own set of keys unique to that cylinder.
Yes, there are only two methods that can be used rekey a car. The first is used by a few locksmiths, but it is not a great option. This method removes a few of the wafers that are inside of the lock, and will re-arrange some of the other wafers, to make the new key work in the ignition.
Relevant Questions and Answers :
the most relevant questions and answers related to your specific issue
Replacing an ignition lock cylinder with no keys?
ANSWER : Hi there. Typically trying to get a key made to fit an ignition lock cylinder is next to impossible. The best advice we’d suggest is to replace your ignition lock cylinder; and make multiple copies of the keys (just in case this happens again).
How to replace an ignition cylinder? do I also have to replace ignition switch? cause key has a chip that’s specific my dodge.
ANSWER : In some cases i have seen the outer ignition housing okay and just the key lock cylinder damaged. In others they damage the housing and ignition lock cylinder. In either case you cannot use your key; it will be a problem since the chip is programmed to your vehicle and will require programming. You may have to replace the entire housing on the column and have the new ignition key reprogrammed to start the car.
Before you purchase any parts, have it inspected to see the damaged parts so you get what is needed. You will need a qualified mechanic to install parts and program the key with a factory scanner. This may mean the dealer will have to do the programming of the new key or a specialized locksmith.
Key won’t turn after installing new ignition cylinder and ignition lock. Need help polishing things off.
ANSWER : Hi there:
This problem tends to occur when an aftermarket ignition cylinder is used for the replacement project. The inner lock housing sometimes doesn’t always fit flush to OEM steering columns, which can create the symptoms you’re experiencing.
Here are the directions on how to replace an ignition cylinder article, you should check out. The best option is to remove the old one, and start from scratch. Verify that you’re using an OEM replacement cylinder; as aftermarket parts typically cause more hassle than help in this case.
If you need assistance with fixing this issue, consider YourMechanic, as one of our mobile technicians can come to your home to diagnose the issue with your key firsthand for an accurate repair.
Does a new ignition lock cylinder include new keys?
ANSWER : The new lock cylinder does come with new keys but you would have to use the original key to open the doors or have all of the lock cylinders on the doors and trunk match the new ignition lock cylinder. In this case, you are better off having a dealer or lock smith cut out an identical ignition lock cylinder to match the original key so that you will not have to replace everything.
2000 escalade will not lock with the key in the ignition, it only chimes and doesn’t engage lock.
ANSWER : Hi there. If the driver door is not locking with the door ajar and the key in the ignition, that is normal. If all of the doors are not engaging the locks with the key in the ignition and the engine off, that also is normal. If the engine is running and the transmission is in park, then the doors should lock and unlock, but auto lock when putting the vehicle in drive (if your vehicle has that function). Try this:
Remove the key from the ignition
Take the battery cable off the battery and put it back on
Take the key and put it into the driver door
Turn the key once to unlock the driver door
Turn the key again and the other doors should lock
Unlock the driver door and open the door
Put the key in the ignition and turn it to ’ON’
Hold down on the lock button to lock all of the doors and turn off the key
Turn on the key to the ’ON’ position and release the door lock button
Hold down on the unlock button to unlock all of the doors and turn of the key
Turn on the key to the ’ON’ position and release the door unlock button
This should program the computer system to unlock and lock the doors by the door lock switches. If this does not seem to work, then there is an issue with the programming in the computer or a failed door lock button on the driver door. I recommend seeking out a professional, such as one from Your Mechanic, to help you with your doors not locking if you are unable to get them to lock.
Ignition Lock cylinder issue
ANSWER : The attempted theft may have caused damaged to the housing behind the steering wheel. The spring loaded action comes from inside the housing and not the lock cylinder so I have a feeling you will either have to replace the housing or the entire steering column. Take a good look around for damaged wires that may have caused blown fuses. If you need some help with this, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician can come to your home to diagnose your ignition system firsthand and help you make the necessary repairs.
key unlocks doors and trunk but ignition is locked key will not turn ignition, i think maybe key is worn out?
ANSWER : There are several possibilities. The key could be worn (try a spare key), the lock cylinder could be worn or broken, in which case no matter what key you try it might not work and/or there could be an issue with the shift interlock. The ignition "switch" is an electro-mechanical device so if you simply request an electric component inspection – ignition switch the responding certified mechanic will get this taken care of for you. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.
all doors lock only by inserting key in passenger side door and locking
ANSWER : Your central locking system may have been designed with a control module in the circuit. This is a small computer that is responsible for controlling the different functions of a particular system. It is possible that the module for your central locking system may have shorted out internally preventing particular functions from working properly. I would recommend having a certified technician test your central locking module to determine if all of its functions are working properly.
